What is a Massage Therapist?
As mentioned in the introduction, therapeutic massage is an alternative form of healthcare that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manually stimulates muscles, tissue and skin to diminish stress and eliminate tension and pain in their patients. Swedish, or Classic Massage, is the type of massage that most of us think of when researching therapeutic massage, and most Antelope CA massage therapy schools teach it as their principal type of massage. But keep in mind, there are many other forms of massage that programs have the option to include as part of their course of instruction. Following are some of the more popular examples.
- Neuromuscular Therapy Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Sports Massage
- Shiatsu Massage
- Thai Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Pregnancy Massage
Practitioners that work in therapeutic massage are properly referred to as massage therapists. On occasion you might hear them called a masseur or a masseuse, which is generally the name of a female or a male massage practitioner. Unfortunately, these terms typically carry a derogatory connotation among Antelope CA professionals and the public at large and should be avoided.
Massage Therapy Education Requirements
Most Antelope CA massage therapy programs require that the enrollee has earned a high school diploma or a GED to qualify. Programs can range in length from several months for a Diploma or a Certificate to as long as two years to earn an Associate’s Degree. How long the programs are will also vary by State dependent on the training hours required for licensing. Another factor that may also have an effect on the program length is whether classes are offered during the day or at night. In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy often has general studies requirements and are often transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program. Once you have earned your Certificate or Degree, the training doesn’t stop there. The type and amount of continuing education you will need to complete will depend on the State where you are licensed. Some states require both a certain number of hours of continuing education as well as specific education in subjects, such as ethics or HIPAA compliance.
Massage Therapy Licensing
Once you have graduated from an accredited Antelope CA massage therapy school, the next step is to obtain your license in the State where you will be practicing. The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), is an exam conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by the majority of States as a portion of the licensing process. There are States that have their own or additional exams, so find out from your State prior to enrolling in a massage therapy school. If you fail the MBLEx in the first attempt, you can take it again after 30 days but will be charged another testing fee. Once licensed, you will need to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements. As previously mentioned, renewal typically requires a certain number of hours of continuing education be completed. And if you should move to another State, licensing will be required for that new State as well. Every State regulates massage therapy differently, so do not assume that you will automatically be qualified for licensing. Confirm with your new State prior to moving that you meet the requirements to practice legally there.